At a Glance
- Tasks: Support uplifting singing sessions for people with dementia, helping them feel at ease and engaged.
- Company: Alzheimer's Society, the UK's leading dementia charity making a real difference.
- Benefits: Gain valuable experience, make meaningful connections, and contribute to a rewarding cause.
- Other info: Friendly environment, flexible commitment, and support available for applications.
- Why this job: Be part of a fun team that helps others find their voice through music.
- Qualifications: Enthusiasm, compassion, and a willingness to help; no singing skills required!
Our Singing for the Brain sessions offer people affected by dementia a chance to enjoy a fun activity within a supportive environment, but we need you to help make this happen! Singing for the Brain is a structured group session, designed around the principles of music therapy and singing, for people with dementia, who may attend alone or with a carer. These uplifting sessions offer the people attending an enjoyable activity, as well as the chance to socialise with other people affected by dementia.
As a Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer, you’ll be welcoming and talking to people with dementia, helping them to feel at ease. You will help set up the room and tidy away at the end of the session and help prepare and distribute refreshments as well as supporting the session facilitator by distributing materials such as songbooks. Once the singing session starts, you’ll provide encouragement to participate in the activity, and support the session facilitator with the activities, either online or in person.
This group meets at Buckland Community Centre, Malins Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire PO2 7BT on the second & fourth Wednesday of the month from 10am - 12.30pm.
You’ll be great for the role if:
- You have an interest in developing meaningful relationships and making a real difference.
- You want to enable people with dementia to find their voice through music in an incredibly rewarding role.
- You are fun and enthusiastic.
- You have the ability to listen and display compassion.
- If you are supporting our virtual sessions, you will need to be able to navigate effectively online and be able to use Zoom with confidence.
Experience of dementia is not essential, nor is the ability to sing! This is a very friendly and welcoming group, you do not need to be able to sing well!! Just be willing to help people and be part of a team.
Please note this role requires some ability to lift heavy objects like chairs and tables so some physical strength and ability is necessary.
If you find completing online applications difficult, please don't let this stop you from applying....please call or email us and we can support you with the application process. You can contact the Volunteering Recruitment Team by emailing volunteering@alzheimers.org.uk or call on 0300 222 5706.
Minimum age 16.
About Alzheimer's Society: Dementia is the UK's biggest killer. One in three people born in the UK today will develop dementia in their lifetime. At Alzheimer's Society, we're the UK's leading dementia charity and the only one to tackle all aspects of dementia by giving help and hope to people living with dementia today and in the future. We give vital support to people facing the most frightening times of their lives, while also funding groundbreaking research and campaigning to make dementia the priority it should be. Together with our supporters, we're working towards a world where dementia no longer devastates lives.
Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer - Portsmouth employer: AlzheimersSociety
Alzheimer's Society is an exceptional employer, offering a rewarding opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals affected by dementia. With a supportive work culture that values compassion and teamwork, volunteers can expect to develop meaningful relationships while contributing to uplifting community sessions in Portsmouth. The organisation provides comprehensive training and growth opportunities, ensuring that every volunteer feels valued and empowered to make a difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer - Portsmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the organisation! Research Alzheimer's Society and their mission. Understanding their values will help you connect better during your interactions and show that you're genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your people skills! Since you'll be working with individuals affected by dementia, it's crucial to be warm and approachable. Try role-playing conversations with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see an opportunity to help out during sessions, jump in. Whether it’s setting up the room or encouraging participation, showing initiative can really make you stand out as a volunteer.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to get started. If you hit any snags, don’t hesitate to reach out for support. We’re here to help you through the application process!
We think you need these skills to ace Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer - Portsmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Be Yourself:When filling out your application, let your personality shine through! We want to see the real you, so don’t be afraid to show your enthusiasm for helping others and your passion for music.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to highlight any relevant experiences or skills that relate to supporting people with dementia. Even if you haven’t worked in this area before, think about how your past experiences can contribute to the role.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love a good story, keep your application straightforward. Use clear language and avoid jargon to ensure your points come across effectively. Remember, we’re looking for clarity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. If you hit any snags or have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for support—we're here to help!
How to prepare for a job interview at AlzheimersSociety
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Singing for the Brain Support Volunteer. Understand how your role contributes to creating a supportive environment for people with dementia. This will help you articulate your passion for making a difference during the interview.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
Bring your fun and enthusiastic personality to the forefront! Share examples of how you've engaged with others in a supportive way, especially in group settings. This will demonstrate your ability to connect with participants and make them feel at ease.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations, like encouraging participation or managing refreshments. Think of scenarios where you've shown compassion and teamwork, as these qualities are essential for this role.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Online Skills
If you're applying for virtual sessions, be prepared to discuss your experience with online platforms like Zoom. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that show you can navigate technology confidently, as this is crucial for supporting online activities.
